Arctocephalus galapagoensis
The Galápagos Fur Seal is a marine mammal endemic to the Galápagos archipelago, meaning it is not found naturally anywhere else in the world. It is the only fur seal species adapted to tropical conditions.
Unlike the Galápagos Sea Lion (Zalophus wollebaeki), the fur seal possesses a double-layered pelage: a short, water-repellent outer coat and a dense, fine underfur that traps air and provides thermal insulation, enabling dives to around 200 meters.
Breeding colonies are concentrated in the northern and western sectors of the archipelago. The species shows sexual dimorphism — males are larger and darker than females.
IUCN Status: Endangered. Primary threats include ocean warming associated with El Niño events and incidental capture in fishing nets.
